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Choosing the right earbuds for calls and meetings is essential in today’s remote work and communication environment. Two popular options are the Sony Linkbuds and the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live. This article compares these two models to help you decide which is best for your needs.
Design and Comfort
The Sony Linkbuds feature a unique open-ring design that allows ambient sound to pass through, making them comfortable for long wear and ideal for staying aware of your surroundings during calls. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live have a bean-shaped, ergonomic design that fits snugly in the ear, providing a secure fit for extended use.
Audio Quality and Microphone Performance
Both earbuds offer high-quality audio, but they differ in microphone technology. The Sony Linkbuds utilize beamforming microphones that effectively reduce background noise, resulting in clearer voice calls. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live also feature multiple microphones with noise reduction capabilities, but some users report slightly better call clarity with the Sony model in noisy environments.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
The Sony Linkbuds do not have active noise cancellation but rely on their open design to let in ambient sound. This can be beneficial during calls when awareness of your environment is necessary. The Galaxy Buds Live offer active noise cancellation, which helps block out background noise, but some find it less effective during calls compared to Sony’s open design.
Connectivity and Features
Both earbuds support Bluetooth 5.0 for stable connections. The Sony Linkbuds are compatible with both Android and iOS devices and support multipoint pairing, allowing connection to multiple devices simultaneously. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live are optimized for Samsung Galaxy devices but also work well with other smartphones, offering features like touch controls and quick pairing.
Battery Life
The Sony Linkbuds provide approximately 5.5 hours of listening time on a single charge, with an additional 12 hours from the charging case. The Galaxy Buds Live offer around 6 hours of playback, with a total of up to 21 hours including the case. For calls, both models offer similar talk time, around 4-5 hours per charge.
Ease of Use and Controls
Both earbuds feature touch controls for managing calls, adjusting volume, and controlling playback. The Sony Linkbuds have customizable touch gestures, while the Galaxy Buds Live offer intuitive controls that are easy to use during calls. Voice assistant support is available on both, with Google Assistant and Bixby on Samsung, and Google Assistant or Alexa on Sony.
Conclusion: Which Is Better for Calls & Meetings?
For users prioritizing clear voice calls and ambient awareness, the Sony Linkbuds are an excellent choice due to their open design and superior microphone technology. If active noise cancellation and a secure fit are more important, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live provide effective noise reduction and a comfortable fit for longer meetings. Consider your environment and preferences when choosing between these two models.